172nd St. Patrick’s Irish Picnic & Homecoming- One of Tennessee’s Oldest Celebrations

Step into one of Tennessee’s oldest and most beloved traditions at the St. Patrick’s Irish Picnic, a community celebration that has been bringing people together since 1854. What began as a small church fundraiser has grown into a regional homecoming that draws tens of thousands each year to celebrate heritage, food, and fellowship.

Held annually on the last Friday and Saturday in July, the Irish Picnic transforms McEwen into a lively gathering place filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors of a true Middle Tennessee tradition.

At the heart of the event is its world-famous barbecue, with thousands of pounds of pork slow-cooked over hickory coals and served alongside a long-standing “secret sauce” recipe passed down through generations.

But the Irish Picnic is more than just great food. Visitors can enjoy:

• Live music and dancing throughout the weekend
• Family-friendly games and booths for all ages
• A lively atmosphere rooted in community, faith, and tradition
• A true homecoming experience, where generations return year after year to reconnect

Hosted by St. Patrick Church and School, the event remains a vital fundraiser while serving as a powerful example of community pride and volunteerism, with locals working around the clock to prepare food, operate booths, and welcome visitors from near and far.

For one weekend each summer, McEwen becomes more than a destination—it becomes a gathering place where tradition is honored, stories are shared, and community takes center stage.